side moulding rubber insert cutting?

[Rick]

I will be installing replacement black body side rubber strips into the chrome body side mouldings.   What is the proper way to shape / cut the ends of these black rubber inserts? Should the rubber at the ends of the inserts be cut straight  or was it cut with an inward angle of sorts?

[KevinC]

I cut mine with a single sharp razor on a slight angle. There is likely to be a better way but it worked just fine for me.

[49er]

Here are some photos of mine, front to back. The rear rubber strip is cut on the same angle on both ends

John

[ja17]

Yes depending on the location, they are cut at various angles. A bit of soapy water along with a sharp blade or razor will create a clean cut.

[scoot]

We need to install this in our car also.  Is it easier to install if the rubber has been sitting in warm water or something to make it softer?  Any tricks or hints?   Thanks

[Garry]

I found the easiest way to insert the rubber strip was to put the upper edge in first and then with a wide flat end screwdriver, gently push the lower side into the moulding, working along the strip from one end.  Be careful pressing on the screwdriver to avoid damaging the rubber but also slipping off and damaging paintwork. Working form the bottom also lessens the risk of any possible marking on the rubber being visible. I did not use any lubricating. If is new rubber then it has some malleability to it. Warming it certainly will help

 It is a slow process but once you get the hang of it then it gets faster.

Garry

[jpinet]

I've put mine in the oven at 140F to warm them up. They became much softer and were easier to install. I didn't think of hot water, but I guess that could work also. Yes, as others mentioned, there are cut at an angle. It is necessary in the front to clear the fender edge, in my car anyway, and I guess MB cut the back part to make it look alike.